Neurofibrillary Tangles

Neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) are a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias, characterized by twisted fibers inside brain cells. These tangles primarily consist of a protein called tau, which normally helps maintain the structure of neurons. In Alzheimer's, tau proteins become abnormal and clump together, disrupting neuronal function and communication. This leads to cell death and contributes to the cognitive decline seen in affected individuals. NFTs are found predominantly in areas of the brain involved in memory and cognitive functions. Understanding their formation and impact is crucial for developing therapies to combat Alzheimer's disease and related dementias, aiming to alleviate symptoms and slow down progression by targeting these pathological changes in the brain.